Applying Theorems on b-Metric Spaces to Differential and Integral Equations Through Connected-Image Contractions

This paper introduces a new concept of a connected-image set for a mapping, which extends the notion of edge-preserving properties with respect to mapping. We also present novel definitions of connected-image contractions, with a focus on fixed-point theorems involving auxiliary functions in b-metric spaces. The relationships between these mathematical concepts are explored, along with their applications to solving differential and integral equations. In particular, we discuss existence results for solving integral equations and second-order ordinary differential equations with inhomogeneous Dirichlet boundary conditions, as well as theorems related to contractions of the integral type.